What Is an Albino Ball Python?

Known scientifically as Python regius, the ball python is a popular pet for snake lovers. Albino ball pythons have very little pigmentation, compared to regular ball pythons. They are typically bred as pets, especially since they do not get very large. A terrarium with a heat source is typically required for these types of snakes, and they also need fresh water and food.

Ball pythons are also called royal pythons sometimes. They are native to some African rainforests, particularly those in the central and western parts of the continent. An albino ball python is rare in the wild, but they are often bred in captivity specifically for their unusual coloring.

A regular ball python has a dark, almost black, body. Brown splotches cover most of it, except it belly, which is white. An albino ball python, on the other hand, has a white body and belly. Its splotches are a bright yellow or gold color, and it has bright pink eyes. A younger albino ball python will sometimes have very light yellow markings that will darken slightly with age.

Although it is a stocky and heavy snake, a ball python typically does not grow to be very large. Along with the children's python, the ball python is one of the smallest pythons in the world. A juvenile albino ball python is usually around 1 foot (30.5 centimeters) long, and an adult will usually grow to be no more than 5 feet (1.5 meters) long.

Like any other pet snake, an albino ball python needs a secure enclosure. In the wild, ball pythons are typically found in wooded rainforests. A terrarium with trees and branches is usually suitable.

An albino ball python enclosure should also have a heat source. An under-tank heater is usually recommended, since a heat rock can cause serious burns. Many experts recommend placing a heater under just one half of a tank, because this will give the snake a cool area in the tank and prevent it from becoming overheated. The recommended temperature for an albino ball python enclosure is around 90 degrees F (32 degrees C) during the day, which can be monitored with a tank thermometer. The temperature can be lowered to around 75 degrees F (24 degrees C) at night.

These snakes are nocturnal, and they are usually more active at night. Two hide boxes, one on each side of the enclosure, should be provided. An albino ball python is usually a very shy snake, and it will hide during the day. It will often emerge at night to explore and feed.

A juvenile ball python will usually feed on very small rodents. Baby mice, sometimes referred to as pinkies, are usually recommended. Larger adults can feed on full grown mice or baby rats. A feeding once or twice a week is usually sufficient.

An albino ball python is a genetic variant of the common ball python that lacks melanin, the pigment responsible for coloration in animals. This results in a distinctive yellow and white color pattern with red or pink eyes. Albinism in these snakes is caused by a recessive gene, making it a relatively rare occurrence in the wild.

Albinism does not inherently affect a ball python's health or lifespan. With proper care, albino ball pythons can live up to 30 years in captivity, similar to their normally pigmented counterparts. However, they may be more sensitive to light and can be prone to skin issues if not provided with adequate shelter and humidity.

Survival for albino ball pythons in the wild can be challenging due to their conspicuous coloring, which makes them more vulnerable to predators. Additionally, their sensitivity to sunlight can be a disadvantage. However, they are primarily nocturnal, which may help mitigate some risks associated with their albinism.

Yes, albino ball pythons are typically more expensive than their non-albino counterparts due to their rarity and unique appearance. Prices can vary widely based on the snake's age, size, and specific color pattern, with some individuals fetching prices in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Albino ball pythons require the same basic care as other ball pythons, including a warm and humid environment, a proper diet of rodents, and regular handling to maintain tameness. However, they may need additional protection from bright light and careful monitoring for skin conditions due to their lack of melanin.

To ensure you're buying a healthy albino ball python, research reputable breeders who can provide detailed health records and genetic information about their snakes. Inspect the snake for signs of good health, such as clear eyes, smooth skin, and a well-rounded body. A trustworthy breeder should also be willing to answer questions and offer post-purchase support.